Sydney Walking Tour: Razor Wars of the 1920s and '30s

Dive into the dark side of Sydney’s crime-riddled Kings Cross district of the 1920s and 1930s, and hear the real-life stories of sex, crime and drugs. This professionally guided two-hour walking tour takes you into the world of Tilly Devine, Kate Leigh and Nellie Cameron, infamous women who controlled bootleg alcohol distribution and much of Sydney's illegal sex industry during the 1920s and '30s, and were central to Sydney's 'Razor Wars' that followed. This is an informative journey through a colorful period of Sydney's history.

Highlights

Explore the local streets on a walking tour of the city

Step back in time on a history tour

Fully narrated tour

Informative, friendly and professional guide

Instant Confirmation

Perfect introduction for first-time visitors

Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, razor gangs and razor wars took over Sydney's Kings Cross district. Join your professional guide on a walking tour of the events, stories, people and places central in this dangerous period in Sydney's history.

In the early 1920s, Sydney saw an upsurge in organized crime due to the prohibition of cocaine and prostitution, the criminalization of off-course racetrack betting as well as the introduction of six o'clock closing for public bars. Illegal drug distribution became a serious social problem, particularly in Sydney's inner-city suburbs of Kings Cross, Surry Hills and Darlinghurst. This period was especially lucrative for criminal entrepreneurs like Kate Leigh, Tilly Devine and Nellie Cameron.

After handguns were criminalized, razors became the weapon of choice amongst Sydney's gangs. The two major gangs, associated with Kate Leigh and Tilly Devine, began open warfare in 1929, resulting in two of Sydney's most notorious riots:, the 'Battle of Blood Alley' and the 'Battle of Kellet Street.' Both riots took place in the streets in and around Kings Cross.

Get an up-close look and hear the stories of this interesting time in Australian history. Your guide dives into the streets and alleyways that make up Kings Cross (also known as Sydney’s red light district).

Schedule details

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Under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian; photo ID may be requested by guide

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